Santa Barbara, Calif. — In a tough matchup all weekend against UC Santa Barbara, the Aggies put on an impressive offensive display in the series finale with several players showcasing their talents at the plate. Despite ultimately falling short in the 5-4 loss, the Aggies demonstrated their resilience and fighting spirit throughout the game.
Damian Stone led the way for UC Davis, going 2-for-4 on the day with a walk and an RBI. His impressive performance highlighted his consistency and reliability at the top of the lineup. Joey Wright also had a notable game, going 1-for-4 with a double and an RBI. His clutch hit in the seventh inning helped spark a three-run rally for the Aggies, proving his ability to come through in the clutch. Nick Leehey also contributed to the team's offensive efforts, going 2-for-4 with a pair of hits.
HOW IT HAPPENED
Although UC Davis faced an early 5-0 deficit, they refused to back down and fought their way back into the game. In the seventh inning, Wright's RBI double was the key hit in UC Davis' three-run rally. The Aggies continued to battle and closed the gap even further in the eighth inning, with Leehey coming across to score the lone run of the inning for UC Davis, bringing the score to 5-4 in favor of the Gauchos. Unfortunately, the Aggies were unable to complete the comeback, but their impressive efforts and fighting spirit are a testament to their determination and competitiveness they've displayed all season.
On the mound, sophomore Carter Delaney got the start for UC Davis, but was ultimately charged with the loss, bringing his record to 0-3 on the season. Delaney pitched 4.1 innings before being replaced by Nathan Peng. The bullpen did their best to keep this game in check as the trio of Peng, Danny Carrion and Kaden Hogan allowed no runs over the course of 3.2 innings. Hogan provided the cleanest inning out of all the Aggies today, throwing one scoreless inning with no hits, walks, and one strikeout.
Although the Aggies were unable to secure the win, their strong offensive performance and never-say-die attitude demonstrated their ability to compete with some of the top teams in the conference. With several key contributors stepping up and making significant contributions, UC Davis will undoubtedly look to build on this performance as they continue to fight for victories throughout the remainder of the season.
GAME NOTES
» UC Davis' highest scoring inning was the seventh, when it pushed three runs across.
» UC Davis went 3-for-6 (.500) with runners in scoring position.
» UC Davis pitchers faced 36 UCSB hitters in the game, allowing six ground balls and 13 fly balls while striking out two.
» Stone led the Aggies at the plate, going 2-for-4 with an RBI.
» UCSB was led offensively by junior Jared Sundstrom, who went 3-for-4 with an RBI.
» Junior JD Callahan led the Gauchos pitching staff, throwing 6.2 innings of three-run ball.
UP NEXT
The Aggies will hit the road and travel to Pacific for a night time showdown in Stockton at 6 P.M. on Tuesday, May 6. After the game against the Tigers, the Aggies will return home to host Cal Poly at Dobbins Stadium for a weekend series that kicks off this Friday, May 5.
